Todays readings.. Deuteronomy 29, Isaiah 1, Acts 27
“HEAR … FOR THE LORD HAS SPOKEN”
Today we start reading the heart challenging book of Isaiah. The 2nd verse is particularly challenging! “Hear … give ear, O earth; for the LORD has spoken.” And his words of have been recorded and preserved – and have challenged every generation – and today, the people of every nation. They challenge us most of all, because we read them every day. Those who do not read them – avoid being challenged – but this is at the peril of their eternal life.
The 4th verse is such an awesome challenge for today! “Ah, sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity … who deal corruptly! They have forsaken the LORD …”
How appropriate for today is v.10! “Hear (read) the word of the LORD, you rulers of Sodom! … you people of Gomorrah!’” We know how God condemned those godless cities – see Gen. 19 v.24,28. Today the whole world has become almost totally godless, although his word, the Bible, is available in every language. As in Isaiah’s day, the pretence of belief has become “an abomination to” God. [v.13].
Verse 15 we read today is awesome! Israel’s spirituality had become so bad! God declares through Isaiah, says- I will hide my eyes from you; even though you make many prayers, I will not listen.” We balance this declaration against the LORD’s words in v.18, 19. ’ “Come now, let us reason together, says the LORD: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool. If you are willing and obedient …”
That is most encouraging! But the ‘other side of the coin’ in v.20 “but if you refuse and rebel, you shall be eaten by the sword; for the mouth of the LORD has spoken.” And that “spoken” word is now written and is available in every language – and it used to be available is nearly every house!
Verse 28 jumps out at us – as to what “the LORD has spoken! “…rebels and sinners shall be broken together, and those who forsake the LORD shall be consumed.”
